We live in a world where devices are part of everyday life. They connect us, entertain us, and even help our kids learn. We are not anti-device, but we are pro-development.
When kids spend too much time on screens, they miss out on “hygiene habits” that are just as important as brushing their teeth or taking a shower: social hygiene and physical hygiene.
These two habits fuel brain health by stimulating oxytocin (the bonding chemical) and endorphins (the “feel-good” chemical). These are neurotransmitters that kids don’t get when they’re glued to a screen. Without these, children are more likely to feel disconnected, unmotivated, and stressed.
That’s where Okami Kai Martial Arts and Fitness comes in…
Two Quick Tips for Parents:
1. Social Hygiene + Okami Kai Teaching: Partner Interaction
Kids need regular, face-to-face interaction to grow socially strong. Okami Kai provides this through structured teaching strategies such as, partner challenges, team games, and skill-based contests. These spark oxytocin by creating moments of shared excitement and peer connection. Think of it as a “social shower,” washing away isolation and strengthening a child’s sense of belonging.
2. Physical Hygiene + Okami Kai Teaching: Up the Rep
Movement is more than fitness. It’s mental hygiene. In classes at Okami Kai, instructors use teaching strategies such as the “Up the Rep” technique, encouraging kids to try a little harder on each rep so that the final rep is the strongest. This consistent practice not only builds physical skill but also releases endorphins, helping kids feel happier, calmer, and more confident. Every rep is like brushing their mental health, keeping stress and anxiety at bay.
But What Happens If You Pull Them Out?
Sometimes parents consider pulling their child out of our classes because of busy schedules, budgeting, or the frustrations from “pulling them away from their device to come to class.” But here’s the real question: What’s your backup plan?
– What program will give them both social and physical hygiene at the same time like classes at Okami Kai?
– Where will they get consistent face-to-face interaction that strengthens their confidence and empathy like classes at Okami Kai?
– What daily outlet will help them release stress, boost mood, and fuel their developing brain like classes at Okami Kai?
While most alternatives fall short, Okami Kai’s martial art classes are backed by science and psychology. Sports may cover physical activity but lack the intentional social developmental that Okami Kai provides. Clubs may provide social interaction but not movement with a skill-based approach. Devices? They only deepen the problem.
Okami Kai Martial Arts and Fitness is uniquely designed to meet both needs at once backed by child development science and our teaching strategies like Partner Interaction and Up the Rep. By pulling your child out, you risk leaving a major gap in their overall development.
The truth is, there’s no better “backup plan” than sticking with Okami Kai!